It's time again for the Baptist Joint Committee's annual religious liberty essay contest! This year's timely topic concerns the role of religion in presidential campaign.
The religious beliefs and affiliations of presidential candidates often become campaign issues. Is that fair? Should presidential candidates talk about their religious beliefs? Are there certain religion-related questions each candidate should or should not have to answer? In an essay, examine the role religion should play during a presidential campaign.
Here are some other guidelines:
Students must use and cite sources in their essays, such as the U.S. Constitution and news articles.
Essays must be between 800-1,200 words, and they must be mailed – along with registration forms – and postmarked by March 15, 2012, to be eligible. Contest entry forms are available online at www.BJConline.org/contest.
Winners will be announced in the summer of 2012, and the grand prize winner will be recognized at the BJC board meeting in Washington, D.C., in October 2012.
Essays will be judged on the depth of their content, the mastery of the topic, and the skill with which they are written. Students should develop a point of view on the issue and demonstrate critical thinking, using appropriate examples, reasons and other evidence to support their position.
In addition to a trip to D.C., the first prize includes $1,000! Second prize is $500 and third prize is $100. Pass the word on to high school students you know in the graduating classes of 2012 and 2013!
See www.bjconline.org/contest for more rules, information and entry forms!
